SalaryNode

Average Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers Salary in Lansing-East Lansing, MI

In Lansing-East Lansing, MI, Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers earn an average annual salary of $37,290. This figure is slightly below the national average of $38,660, suggesting that local market dynamics and the specific demand within the region influence compensation. While the difference is modest, it highlights the importance of understanding local economic factors when evaluating salary potential.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $37,290 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 22.0% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $45,700.
  • Outlook: The Lansing-East Lansing area supports a dedicated workforce of 210 Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers. With a Location Quotient of 1.31, this role is more concentrated in Lansing-East Lansing than the national average, indicating a potentially robust demand or a specialized local industry that values these professionals. The presence of nearly one job per thousand workers further underscores the steady need for these essential animal care roles within the community.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$37,290

The average Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in Lansing-East Lansing, MI earns-3.5%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$17.9

Weekly

$717

Monthly

$3,108

Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers Salary Distribution in Lansing-East Lansing, MI

Career progression for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers typically involves gaining experience and specialized skills. Entry-level positions may start at a lower percentile of the salary range, while seasoned professionals with extensive experience and certifications can command salaries in the higher percentiles. The widening gap between entry-level and senior roles signifies substantial earning potential as one advances in their career.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience.10% (Entry)$29,510$14.2
Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures.25% (Junior)$27,968$13.4
Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification.50% (Median)$36,920$17.8
SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases.75% (Senior)$46,613$22.4
Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider.90% (Expert)$45,700$22

Detailed Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$37,290

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$37,290

Adjusted for COL (100)

The average annual salary of $37,290 in Lansing-East Lansing aligns perfectly with the national Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of a Veterinary Assistant's salary in this area is equivalent to the national average. Consequently, the nominal salary translates directly to a comparable standard of living when compared to the rest of the country, offering financial stability without significant adjustment.

Job Market Context

210

Total Jobs

0.969

Per 1K Jobs

1.31

Location Quotient

Above Average

With a location quotient of 1.31, Lansing-East Lansing, MI has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers roles compared to the national norm.

A Location Quotient of 1.31 signifies that Lansing-East Lansing has a higher concentration of Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers compared to the national average. This suggests a more specialized or developed market for these roles within the region, potentially leading to more opportunities or a competitive environment for job seekers. Employers in this area may find it easier to recruit talent due to this concentration.

Nearby Job Markets

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers make in Lansing-East Lansing, MI?

The median annual salary for a Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in Lansing-East Lansing, MI is $37,290. This typically ranges from $29,510 for entry-level positions to $45,700 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Lansing-East Lansing, MI is 3.5% lower than the national median of $38,660.

Is Lansing-East Lansing, MI a lucrative place for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakerss?

No, but it offers average earning potential.While the average salary of $37,290 is slightly below the national average, the cost of living is also at the national average, meaning your earnings have standard purchasing power. The higher concentration of these roles suggests steady demand.

Is Lansing-East Lansing, MI a good place to live for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers?

The Cost of Living Index in Lansing-East Lansing, MI is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

Where are the highest paying cities near Lansing-East Lansing, MI?

Some top paying nearby cities include Jackson, MI ($34,100) and Mid Michigan nonmetropolitan area.

How does the Lansing-East Lansing salary compare to the national average?

The average annual salary for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in Lansing-East Lansing is $37,290, which is slightly lower than the national average of $38,660.

What is the Cost of Living in Lansing-East Lansing, MI?

The Cost of Living Index in Lansing-East Lansing is 100, which is exactly the national average, indicating that the general cost of goods and services is comparable to the rest of the country.

Is there high demand for Veterinary Assistants in Lansing-East Lansing?

With a Location Quotient of 1.31, the concentration of Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers is higher than the national average, suggesting a strong local demand for these professionals.

What does a Location Quotient of 1.31 mean for job seekers?

A Location Quotient of 1.31 indicates that the Lansing-East Lansing area has a greater proportion of these jobs relative to its workforce compared to the national average, potentially signifying a more specialized job market.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 210 employees in the Lansing-East Lansing, MI area with a job density of 0.969 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.